Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini and Tomato Salsa

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 2 reviews

A stunning centrepiece.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4-6

Ingredients

Units
  • 1 large cauliflower head
  • 1 Tbsp saffron threads
  • 1 Tbsp sumac
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp ground chili powder
  • cup olive oil, plus extra if needed
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 cups tahini
  • ½ cup slivered pistachios, to garnish (optional)
  • 2 Tbsp pomegranate seeds, to garnish (optional)
  • 2 Tbsp chili threads (optional)

For the tomato salsa:

  • ¼ red onion, finely diced
  • 5 tomatoes, deseeded and finely diced
  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • sea salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Place the cauliflower head on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
  2. Combine the saffron threads with 2 cups boiling water and set aside to steep for 15–20 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, combine the saffron liquid with the sumac, ground spices, oil and salt. Pour the mixture over the cauliflower, making sure it is evenly coated.
  4. Cover the tray with foil and roast the cauliflower in the oven for 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the saffron liquid. Add more oil if needed to keep the cauliflower moist.
  5. Remove the foil and roast for a further 10 minutes to brown the cauliflower a little.
  6. While the cauliflower is browning, make the tomato salsa. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Season to taste with salt.
  7. To serve, spread the tahini dip on a large platter and place the cauliflower on top. Cut out a generous wedge of cauliflower and pile the tomato salsa inside and around the edge of the cauliflower. Garnish with slivered pistachios, pomegranate seeds and chili threads if desired.
  • Author: Amanda Ruben
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern